Solution Optimizing HDMI Output for Tapo H500: Better Screen Mirroring for Tapo AC-Powered Cameras/Doorbells
This Article Applies To
Tapo H500
Description
When an AC-powered Tapo camera or doorbell is connected to the Tapo H500, there is a Screen Mirror feature that allows users to cast the camera live stream to a bigger screen device (e.g. TV) via an HDMI cable.
While watching the camera’s live feed via HDMI screen mirroring, you might occasionally notice some buffering, slight delays, or even interruptions. If you do experience similar abnormalities on your devices, the firmware provided in this article could help. Keep looking to learn about how to apply for the firmware!
Before you proceed, be aware that HDMI output behavior depends on the recording configuration. If your camera is set to record detection videos only, it is normal to receive the 'Live Stream Paused' prompt when no events are detected.
1. Event-Based Recording: The live feed will only display when the camera detects motion or events.
2. Continuous Recording: Allows uninterrupted live streaming via Screen Mirroring
Solution
A new firmware for Tapo H500 includes optimizations for the Screen Mirroring feature (HDMI).
Before the official release, community users can receive early access to this new update. If you want to try out the new update, follow the steps below to apply the beta firmware.
How to Apply Beta Firmware
1. Find the Mac address of your Tapo H500: Open the Tapo app and navigate to the smart hub's Device Settings page > Device Info.
2. Send a private message to @Wayne-TP with this format: [Tapo H500 HDMI Optimization] + Mac address of your Tapo H500
★★For users from the United States, please contact forumsupport.usa@tp-link.com instead.
Before the Upgrade
(1) Please be sure you have read the Beta Test Agreement before upgrading the Pre-release firmware!
(2) How to update the firmware of the Tapo devices on the Tapo App
(3) Firmware downgrade is not supported. When a new official version is released, updating it will overwrite the beta version.
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@PEIguy Not a good idea to post MAC address here since it can give access to other "parties" best to delete post and send a PM or email.
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I have the H500 with firmware 1.3.9 build 20251218 rel.62866. Then I have 2 C260 and 2 C560WS.
Screen mirroring works initially, but if I turn the monitor off and then back on, the live view doesn't resume. Instead, I get a 'Live stream paused' message. The only way to fix it is to stop mirroring and restart it manually.
Would your beta firmware be able to resolve this issue?
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I disconnected my panel from power and plugged it back in 3 times. I got 3 different responses:
1- 2 out of my 3 constant feeds were 'live stream paused'
2- 1 of my 3 constant feeds was at 'live stream paused'
3- none of my feeds were paused
I'm on the "beta"/fixed firmware.
So the answer is no, it won't fix that quirk/problem.
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Okay, that doesn't sound great. Even though it seems to be working better for you, I've tried turning off the monitor a few times and I get 'Live stream paused' every time. Maybe it's worth trying the beta version instead?
It seems there's no problem as long as the monitor stays on.
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But I could have just restarted the mirror, and it would be fine. Annoying, but easily fixable.
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Stuntman88 wrote
I have the H500 with firmware 1.3.9 build 20251218 rel.62866. Then I have 2 C260 and 2 C560WS.
Screen mirroring works initially, but if I turn the monitor off and then back on, the live view doesn't resume. Instead, I get a 'Live stream paused' message. The only way to fix it is to stop mirroring and restart it manually.
Would your beta firmware be able to resolve this issue?
@Stuntman88 @sroza1 For this case, i recommend reaching out to the support team directly for further investigation. Contact Technical Support
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